Visions Of Sugarplums

Christmas comes a little early every year to the staff and clients of Leduc LINX. This year it shows up on November 2nd in the form of their annual Gingerbread Gala.

This event really is like Christmas to the organization's 64 clients and their families with it being their major fundraiser for the year, and with disappearing provincial and federal funding, it is becoming even more vital for all involved.

"LINX has almost doubled our client list in the last three years." said Executive Director Nicole Fuhsel. "We have gained 9 clients in just the last 6 months." So with this type of demand for their services Leduc LINX is hoping for a banner year with their Gala.

"We are still looking for live and silent auction items as well as a whole bunch more gingerbread houses!" shared Nicole. "Anyone and everyone can enter a gingerbread house into the gala. There is no cost to enter and the top three houses will win prizes!"

In years past, the houses that have been entered have been everything from kits that have been lovingly decorated and donated by young children to incredible works of art with moving pieces and interior lighting, and everything in between!

What matters most is not how fancy the houses are but the fact that people took the time to make and donate them for a great cause. Every house entered in the contest is auctioned off at the end of the evening and raises money to help Leduc LINX continue their work.

Since outgrowing their old office space along 47 St., in May they moved into their new larger location in the Centre of Hope building on 49 Ave. and costs have increased proportionately.

An average year sees the Gingerbread Gala generating about $15,000.00 for LINX which helps them get through a large portion of the year. With decreased governmental funding and the cost of running an organization constantly increasing both clients and staff are hoping this year will be a banner year for the gala.

An average of 250-300 people attend the event, but everyone is hoping this year will be a sell out with all 350 tickets being sold.

Tickets are $60.00 each and can be purchased at the Leduc LINX office or by calling their Office Manager Laurie Savill at 780-980-9423 ext:223. Donations, auction items and gingerbread houses can also be accepted by calling Laurie, and it should be noted that tax receipts can be given for larger auction items.